The annual hay season is upon us here at Triple E Farm, and we have a new plan in mind! 

To make sure we get the most out of our hay harvest, our team has implemented a new method that uses compost tea as an alternative to synthetic fertilizers. Let's learn more:

What Is Compost Tea?

Before we dive into how we use compost tea on our hay fields, let's define what it is. Compost tea is a liquid fertilizer made by steeping quality compost in water to create a mixture rich in fungi and bacteria. This microbial-rich mixture boosts plant growth and increases plant resilience against disease and drought.

We use the Johnson Sue compost method, which provides an excellent foundation for our compost tea. Combining this compost with water and aeration creates the perfect conditions for microbes to multiply, resulting in a powerful microbial brew. Not only that, but it also unlocks the nitrogen, phosphorus, and other essential nutrients found in soil.  

Using Compost Tea on Hay Fields

At Triple E Farm, we use cow and chicken manure to fertilize our hay fields. This year we will also apply compost tea to unlock nitrogen, phosphorus, and other fertilizers, making them more accessible to the plants. This technique enhances plant growth and results in abundant yields of nutrient-rich hay.

Compost tea is an excellent alternative to synthetic fertilizers, which can harm the environment and crop production when used excessively. Compost tea offers a sustainable option that supports natural ecosystems and soil health while promoting crop growth.

Storing Hay

At Triple E Farm, we work hard for our hay harvest and prioritize the preservation of our hay by implementing proper storage techniques that retain optimal freshness and nutritional value. 

To achieve this, we use silage wrap our hay rounds. You may have seen these big rounds of hay wrapped in plastic on the side of the road. The wrap helps to keep the hay well-preserved during transportation and storage.

Fun Fact: Farmers like us who produce grass-fed meats are actually grass or forage farmers first!

The grass and forage we grow are the foundation of everything on our farm. Sustainable farming practices are a priority to the health and quality of our soil, and that is why we choose to use organic fertilizers such as compost tea.

Not only does this eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers, but it also guarantees that our animals' feed is of high quality and packed with nutrients. And, as a result, we can produce meats that are both nutritious and high-quality!

In addition, we also practice rotational grazing techniques which help maintain biodiversity in the fields while also aiding in erosion control - both of which guarantee a healthy environment.

Let's "wrap" this up!

Sustainable farming practices are vital to our health and the environment. At Triple E Farm, we understand the importance of balancing productivity with eco-friendliness, which is why we’ve adopted compost tea for use in our hay fields.

When you purchase food from Triple E Farm you can be sure you are getting a high-quality and nutritious product while supporting sustainable farming practices at the same time.

Happy hay season from all of us here at Triple E Farm!🌾